Beirut – Discover 5,000 years of history
Flights to Beirut take you to an invigorating city with a great climate, stylish people, an impressive restaurant scene and over 5,000 years of history.
Perfectly located on a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the Lebanese capital enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Explore the sprawling Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque, a modern architectural marvel. Follow this with a visit to the archaeological National Museum of Beirut for a deeper understanding of the city’s fascinating story.
Relax after soaking in all that culture by taking your pick from Mediterranean beaches, trendy shopping areas and world-class dining. Book flight tickets to Beirut with Etihad Airways today.
Reasons to visit Beirut
Sample local favourites
Beirut is an ideal destination for food lovers. There are eateries for all occasions, from street food stalls and hole-in-the-wall takeaways through to fine dining establishments.
Don’t miss traditional specialities such as kibbeh – often served in a lemon sauce in Beirut – tabbouleh, falafel, hummus and fatteh. Man’oushe, flat round bread with a cheese or za’atar topping, is another staple. Head for Zaitunay Bay for upscale dining, or to Hamra for amazing street food.
Shopping and more
Right at the heart of the city sits Beirut Souks. A modern take on the traditional Middle Eastern marketplace, Beirut’s shopping sprawl is a popular attraction.
In place of the old-fashioned one-off shops, this souk is closer to a modern mall and home to designer brands as well as local stores. Afterwards, rest up and enjoy the many dining and entertainment options available, including a state-of-the-art cinema.
Culture and heritage
Its 5,000-year history bestows Beirut with a timeworn wisdom and ancient charm. You’ll find museums, markets and religious sites scattered throughout the city. For a sense of contemporary culture, it’s best to explore on foot and soak up the atmosphere with the locals.
Stroll along Rue Hamra, where you’ll eventually reach the Blue Mosque and St. George Cathedral in lively Martyrs’ Square. Afterwards, stop for coffee and watch the world go by on Place de l’Etoile. When the seaside beckons, head to the breezy Corniche or classy Zaitunay Bay.
Flying to Beirut: FAQs
How easy is it to get around Beirut?
Beirut has an extensive public bus network. Buses can be flagged down in the street as well as at designated stops. Likewise, you can often tell the driver where you’d like to get off along the route. Alternatively, there are several taxi and private hire car operators in the city.
How many days should I spend in Beirut?
Lebanon is a small country and Beirut makes a great base for exploring beyond the capital. If you’re planning a sightseeing trip to Beirut with enough time to appreciate the history, the food and the beach scene, around five days would be perfect. However, you may like to explore the wider country over the course of two weeks.
What are the best places to visit in Beirut?
The National Museum of Beirut is the standout cultural attraction, showcasing artefacts dating back several millennia. Its exhibits include an impressive Bronze Age collection and stunning Byzantine mosaics. The nearby MIM Mineral Museum houses a beautiful display of minerals and fossils and is also worth a visit.
What is the currency in Beirut?
The Lebanese pound (LBP) is the official currency, but most ATMs dispense US dollars as well. These two currencies are used interchangeably almost everywhere.